Mama Spotlight: Trina Smith
- Aug 23, 2022
- 3 min read
Founder, Manager & Artist Development Consultant at Electric Pineapple Media Group
A bold, fearless business mind grounded in inclusivity, fairness, and transparency, Trina Smith is something of a rarity in the music industry.
With years of commercial experience and an unshakable belief that artists—emerging or established—deserve acknowledgment, respect, and proper reward for their work, Trina brings a refreshing and BS-free approach to the duo powerhouse that is Electric Pineapple Media Group.
Rapidly becoming recognized as a tenacious manager with an unapologetic stance against artist exploitation and the marginalization of diverse voices, Trina balances strength with calm. Her sharp eye for a good idea, combined with a confident 'can do' attitude, opens doors—and fast.
As a mixed-race woman in a male-dominated field, Trina is a proud champion of diversity: women, LGBTQ+ creatives, ethnic minorities, fellow mothers, and especially—those close to Electric Pineapple's heart—the neurodiverse.
Following Trina’s own recent ADHD diagnosis and her partner Andrew’s ASD, the duo has made it a mission to support and empower neurodivergent creatives. To help them see their minds as superpowers—sources of innovation, artistry, and originality. To push past stigma and thrive in an industry that has often left them behind.
Importantly, Trina’s activism doesn’t come at the expense of unity. “We are stronger together,” she says—and she lives it. Collaboration is key, and her unmatched ability to forge real, honest relationships ensures fairness for all.
We’re so grateful Trina is part of our community and for her wise words in this spotlight Q&A 💛
Q&A
What's the best and worst thing about being a mama in music?
“The absolute best thing is showing my kids that if you earn a living doing something you love, then you never have to work a day in your life. They also think I get to work with some really awesome people—and I do!”
“The worst was feeling like I had to say sorry for not being able to attend things, whether for the benefit of me or my artist. (Stop with the events and workshops at school pick-up time or Zooms over dinner time!) I’m now unequivocally and utterly unapologetic about being a mother. The music industry still turns past 4 p.m. when my kids are home and happy. It can wait.”
Greatest Challenge?
“Fighting for change in an industry where most people are scared to say the wrong thing in case it impacts their career negatively. Second to that? The new Zoom culture—I hate Zoom.”
Lessons Learned?
“Don’t be the person going around collecting red flags. One and done! Find the people and companies that align with my core values.
People (mainly me) don’t like a strong woman in this industry. You very much become the villain in a story for standing up for what’s right and not being a pushover.”
Hopes for the Future?
“I hope to see a far more diverse culture in the music industry, including realizing the incredible skill set a mother brings to the table. If we can keep small humans alive, your music and artistry is likely safe with us.
Outside of that, I hope tokenism is called out. I hope the companies in the industry where racism and sexism are rife are spoken about publicly. I hope artists start paying producers—and stop offering them royalty splits with no guarantee. Those days need to be gone.”
Know a mama doing powerful things in music? Nominate her for a future spotlight!
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